Summer is right around the corner and there’s no time like the present to start planning your summer getaway. Whether you’re looking to remain stateside or you’d rather visit somewhere abroad, there are a plethora of vacation destinations to choose from.
The Vacationer reports that about 82% of adults in the United States plan to travel this summer. While this percentage is down slightly from last year, that’s not stopping people from pulling out their wallets and clearing their calendars to make space for a fun-filled getaway.
From European hot spots like London and Paris, which will be hosting the Olympics this summer, to American destinations like Miami and Las Vegas, the places below offer a little something for everyone. For example, Orlando can be a great family vacation getaway with its variety of theme parks while Athens and Madrid offer historic views.
It’s also important to note that while these destinations in and of themselves have much to offer, many also have surrounding areas within driving distance that might be worth visiting as well. In fact, some of the destinations on this list are home to the most underrated attractions in the world.
This list is based on data from Google Flights about the most searched summer destinations. The locations listed below were derived from researching Google flight searches in the U.S. for the months of June through August.
1. London
Ranked as the most searched travel location this summer, London is home to several site-seeing opportunities and events. U.S. News and World Report lists 34 of the best things to do in the city while you’re there. Included on this list is visiting Buckingham Palace, the Tower of London, and Westminster Abbey.
2. Paris
As the host of the 2024 Summer Olympics, it’s no wonder Paris is ranked high on the list of popular travel locations this summer. The Olympics will begin Friday, July 26th, and end Sunday, August 11th. Outside of the Olympics, Paris also has a lengthy list of iconic sights to see including the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre Museum, and the Arc de Triomphe.
3. Tokyo
This city in Japan continues to rise in popularity when it comes to summer travel. The New York Post reports that Tokyo moved up to number 3 this year compared to number 8 last year. In Tokyo, you can expect to experience authentic Japanese cuisine, as well as an opportunity to visit ancient temples, shrines, and the Imperial Palace.
4. Rome
As a city whose history dates back more than 2,500 years, Rome is the place to go to see some of the most historical sites in the world. When traveling to this city, you may want to see the Colosseum, the Pantheon, and St. Peter’s Basilica. Rome is also known for its food and wine scene.
5. New York City
NYC rounds out the top 5 travel destinations this summer and is perfect for those looking to remain stateside. From Central Park to the Empire State Building, New York City offers something for everyone.
6. Cancun
This Mexican city was ranked as the second most searched summer travel city in 2023. However, this year, it moved down into the number 6 spot. Cancun is known primarily for its all-inclusive resorts along the coast. Outside resorts, visitors can peruse the island of Isla Mujeres or visit Mayan city remnants.
7. Orlando
Orlando likely falls into the top 10 searchable destinations for one reason – it’s the home of Walt Disney World. But that’s not all you’ll find in Orlando. Beyond theme parks, Orlando is also home to museums and outdoor adventures, making it a family-friendly travel destination.
8. Las Vegas
From casinos to shows and downtown sightseeing, Las Vegas is a popular travel destination any time of year. In fact, KTNV, a local Las Vegas news channel, reported that “Sin City” was the most popular U.S. travel destination in 2023.
9. Seattle
As the last top ten travel destination in the United States, Seattle offers both things to see in the city and outdoor adventures. While there, travelers can visit the Space Needle, Park Place Market, and the Chihuly Garden and Glass Museum. Outside city limits, tourists can check out Mount Rainer National Park, Snoqualmie Falls, and Bainbridge Island.
10. Athens, Greece
Similar to Rome, Athens is home to several ancient buildings and structures. While there, tourists can visit the Acropolis, the Parthenon, and the Panathenaic Stadium. Greece is also known for its iconic food scene, and travelers can also venture on boat rides and cruises.
11. Los Angeles
Like Orlando, Los Angeles is home to theme parks including Universal Studios Hollywood. But there are several other adventures visitors can partake in while in this star-studded California city. Los Angeles is also home to the Griffith Observatory, the Getty Art Museum, and the iconic Hollywood sign nestled in Beachwood Canyon.
12. Miami
While known for its nightlife, Miami is also home to museums, art displays, and gardens. You’ll also find the ever-popular Miami Beach here, a stretch of city and beach that are located between the Atlantic Ocean and Biscayne Bay.
13. Barcelona
Originally founded as a Roman colony, Barcelona has a rich history that dates back nearly 2,000 years. While visiting this Spanish city, tourists can see iconic sites such as the Basílica de la Sagrada Familia, Casa Batlló, and the Mercado de La Boqueria. Barcelona is also known for its shopping and food.
14. Dublin
As the capital of Ireland, Dublin’s history dates back to the 13th century. Iconic historical sites include Dublin Castle and St. Patrick’s Cathedral. Additionally, tourists can visit the seaside Cliffs of Moher. Dublin is also known for its beer and whiskey production so there are several distilleries and breweries that offer tours.
15. Fort Lauderdale
Similar to Miami, Fort Lauderdale is another beachside city in the state of Florida. Here, tourists can enjoy a day on the beach or an afternoon boating through canals. Fort Lauderdale is also home to several museums including the Bonnet House Museum and Gardens, and the Historic Stranahan House Museum.
16. Honolulu
Hawaii offers a chance to visit tropical islands without traveling internationally. Honolulu, Hawaii’s largest city and the capital of the island state, offers historical sites including Iolani Palace, the Bishop Museum, and the USS Arizona Memorial. Visitors can also travel to Honolulu’s beautiful beaches and hotels.
17. Denver
Denver’s not only the largest metropolitan area next to the Rocky Mountains, but it’s also home to its own art and museum scene. While there, you can also travel to nearby Boulder which is nestled in the foothills of the Rockies. Or, venture outside the city to nearby parks and mountainous regions like Estes State Park or Rocky Mountain National Park.
18. Madrid
As Spain’s capital, Madrid is known for its art, museums, and grand parks. While there, tourists can visit the Plaza Mayor, El Retiro Park, and the Royal Palace of Madrid, along with the Museo Museo Nacional del Prado art museum.
19. Boston
Boston, Massachusetts is a great U.S. vacation destination if you’re looking to take in American history. In Boston, you’ll find the Bunker Hill monument, Boston Common, and numerous museums including The Boston Tea Party Ships and Museum and the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum. You can also catch the Red Sox playing in Fenway Park and see 16 separate historic locations as you travel along the Freedom Trail.
20. San Juan, Puerto Rico
As Puerto Rico’s largest city, San Juan contains a mix of historic downtown scenery, nightlife, and beaches. Popular attractions in this city include the Castillo San Felipe del Morro castle, the San Juan National Historic Site, and Condado Beach. (For related reading, click here to see 21 hidden wonders you may not even know exist.)